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Microsoft has described five of the patches as critical
As part of its monthly patch distribution, Microsoft has issued a series of new security updates for Microsoft Windows and Microsoft Office. Five of the patches are categorized as critical.
The most serious vulnerabilities could allow hackers to remotely execute code (such as a malicious worm) on vulnerable systems.
"It is absolutely essential that Windows computers are protected with these security patches at the earliest possible opportunity, because we know that virus writers and hackers often exploit flaws in Microsoft's software in the days immediately following an announcement of a problem," said Graham Cluley, senior technology consultant for Sophos. "The message to PC user is loud and clear: Don't let the bad guys compromise your computers, and get into the habit of regularly applying security patches, or you will be leaving your PCs open to attack."
Home users of Microsoft Windows can visit update.microsoft.com to have their systems scanned for critical Microsoft security vulnerabilities.
Sophos suggests that every IT manager responsible for security should consider subscribing to vulnerability mailing lists such as that operated by Microsoft at www.microsoft.com/technet/security/bulletin/notify.mspx.
Sophos continues to recommend companies protect their desktops and servers with automatically updated protection against viruses, spyware, and spam.
Sophos is headquartered in Boston, US and Oxford, UK. More information is available at www.sophos.com.